MIDAZOLAM SEDATION FOLLOWING OPEN HEART SURGERY

Midazolam given as hourly intermittent injections was compared with the same dose given by infusion for postoperative sedation in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass. A stable concentration was rapidly attained with the infusion whereas 6–8 h was required to attain stable plasma (trough) concentrations in the intermittent injection group. Plasma concentrations decreased rapidly to low values within 6 h of discontinuation of therapy. High plasma concentrations and a long (16 h) half-life were noted in one patient who may be a slow metabolizer of the drug.